In a passage from the Gospel of Luke, Jesus warns about greed and avarice, emphasizing that true wealth lies in the relationship with God and not in accumulating material goods. Through a parable, Jesus illustrates the story of a rich man whose obsession with accumulating wealth leads to the loss of his soul, thus showing the transience of earthly possessions.
The central message is clear: one cannot serve God and money at the same time. Jesus invites reflection on the importance of seeking spiritual riches and not falling into the trap of greed. Francis, in tune with this teaching, reminds us that what truly matters in the eyes of God is love and prayer, not material possessions.
In this context, the need to fill the heart and hands with spiritual and grace-filled goods, which endure over time and give full meaning to life, is highlighted. The figure of Saint Ignatius of Loyola serves as an example of how to focus on spiritual wealth above material wealth.
The parable of Jesus makes evident the folly of concentrating one's life on accumulating earthly riches, causing one to lose sight of what is truly important. The search for happiness in material goods is classified as vain, as true fulfillment is found in the love of God and neighbor.
The final teaching is clear: before God, what truly matters is the heart and soul of people, not their earthly possessions. The parable of the rich man who loses his soul by clinging to his goods is a reminder that life transcends the material and that true security is found in the relationship with God, not in the accumulation of perishable goods.
